Sense and Sensibility
The Dashwood sisters, sensible Elinor and passionate Marianne, learn that their prospects of marriage seem doomed by their family's sudden loss of fortune. After Henry Dashwood dies unexpectedly, his estate must pass on by law to his son. These circumstances leave Mr. Dashwood's wife and daughters without a home and with barely enough money to live on. As Elinor and Marianne struggle to find romantic fulfillment in a society obsessed with financial and social status, they must learn to mix sense with sensibility in their dealings with both money and men.
Critics Sentiment
Both sisters marry their true loves in the countryside
Willoughby coldly rejects Marianne at the London ball
The film's most dramatic swing occurs from Willoughby's cruel rejection at the London ball (5.8) to Colonel Brandon carrying the ill Marianne to safety (8.4), representing a shift from heartbreak to heroic devotion.
The film follows a classic arc from comfortable setup through devastating romantic betrayals to triumphant resolution. Critics consistently praised the gorgeous visuals, stellar performances (particularly Thompson, Winslet, and Rickman), and Emma Thompson's intelligent screenplay adaptation. The emotional journey resonates deeply with audiences, building from charming beginnings through genuine heartbreak to deeply satisfying romantic fulfillment.
Full cast
Showing 20 of 25
Emma Thompson
Elinor Dashwood
Kate Winslet
Marianne Dashwood
Alan Rickman
Colonel Christopher Brandon
Hugh Grant
Edward Ferrars
Gemma Jones
Mrs. Dashwood
Greg Wise
John Willoughby
Elizabeth Spriggs
Mrs. Jennings
Imogen Stubbs
Lucy Steele
Harriet Walter
Fanny Ferrars Dashwood
James Fleet
John Dashwood
Imelda Staunton
Charlotte Jennings Palmer
Hugh Laurie
Mr. Palmer
Emilie François
Margaret Dashwood
Robert Hardy
Sir John Middleton
Richard Lumsden
Robert Ferrars
Tom Wilkinson
Mr. Dashwood
Ian Brimble
Thomas
Isabelle Amyes
Betsy
Alexander John
Curate
Allan Mitchell
Pigeon
Crew
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